A method for fabricating a sensor having anti-parallel tab regions. The method includes forming a free layer, and forming a first layer of a carbon composition above the active area of the free layer. A layer of resist is formed above the first layer of carbon composition. A bias layer is formed above the tab areas of the free layer, the bias layer being operative to substantially pin magnetic moments of the tab areas of the free layer. Leads are formed above the bias layer. A second layer of carbon composition is formed above the tab areas of the free layer. Any material above a plane extending parallel to portions of the second layer of carbon composition above the tab areas are removed using chemical-mechanical polishing. Any remaining carbon composition is removed.